Addressing a common misconception, this handbook explains that donkeys are not horses and that the two kinds of animals are genetically and anatomically quite different. Carefully laying out the special physiological and environmental needs of donkeys, the book educates owners, would-be owners, and breeders about how best to care for their charges while also providing clear technical information on donkey anatomy and behavior, diseases, breeding, and general husbandry. Written with affection for donkeys and their antics, the book goes a long way toward preventing common and sometimes dire mistakes in caring for these interesting animals.

Stephen Purdy, DVM, is a professor of veterinary education and the director of the Camelid Reproduction Center at the University of Massachusetts–Amherst, where he specializes in practical research and educational projects to improve farm-animal health. He lives in Hadley, Massachusetts.